What might be a predisposing factor for prolonged decelerations?

What might be a predisposing factor for prolonged decelerations?

• A. Increased maternal mobility
• B. High dose oxytocin infusion
• C. Maternal hydration
• D. Low activity level of the fetus

Answer: (B)

The correct choice highlights that a high dose of oxytocin infusion can be a predisposing factor for prolonged decelerations during labor. Oxytocin is a hormone commonly used to induce or augment labor by stimulating uterine contractions. However, when administered in high doses, it can lead to excessively strong or frequent contractions, potentially resulting in fetal distress. This distress may manifest as prolonged decelerations, as the fetus may not receive adequate oxygen due to compromised blood flow and increased uterine pressure. In contrast, increased maternal mobility typically helps facilitate labor and reduce fetal stress. Maternal hydration is also beneficial, as it improves uterine tone and can enhance placental perfusion, thus supporting fetal well-being. A low activity level of the fetus may be concerning, but it generally reflects a state of less fetal distress rather than causing prolonged decelerations directly. Therefore, the infusion of high doses of oxytocin stands out as a significant risk factor for inducing prolonged decelerations in fetal heart rate patterns during labor.

The correct choice highlights that a high dose of oxytocin infusion can be a predisposing factor for prolonged decelerations during labor. Oxytocin is a hormone commonly used to induce or augment labor by stimulating uterine contractions. However, when administered in high doses, it can lead to excessively strong or frequent contractions, potentially resulting in fetal distress. This distress may manifest as prolonged decelerations, as the fetus may not receive adequate oxygen due to compromised blood flow and increased uterine pressure.

In contrast, increased maternal mobility typically helps facilitate labor and reduce fetal stress. Maternal hydration is also beneficial, as it improves uterine tone and can enhance placental perfusion, thus supporting fetal well-being. A low activity level of the fetus may be concerning, but it generally reflects a state of less fetal distress rather than causing prolonged decelerations directly. Therefore, the infusion of high doses of oxytocin stands out as a significant risk factor for inducing prolonged decelerations in fetal heart rate patterns during labor.